The Matron Stakes, held annually at Leopardstown Racecourse, is one of the most prestigious Group 1 flat races in Europe, exclusively for fillies and mares aged three years and older. As part of the highly anticipated Irish Champions Weekend, the Matron Stakes draws top-quality contenders from Ireland, the UK, and beyond. This article from British Racecourses delves into everything you need to know about the Matron Stakes, including its history, notable winners, and betting tips.
Every year in September, it takes place over a one-mile course at Leopardstown.
Find out more about the Matron Stakes:
Contents
- 1 History of the Matron Stakes
- 2 Key Facts About the Matron Stakes
- 3 Notable Winners of the Matron Stakes
- 4 Betting on the Matron Stakes
- 5 FAQs About the Matron Stakes
- 6 Matron Stakes Previous Winners
- 7 Matron Stakes Previous Result
- 8 Popular Questions
- 9 Summary of Matron Stakes
- 10 Related September Articles

History of the Matron Stakes
The Matron Stakes, first run in 1985, has evolved over the years to become one of the highlights of the Irish flat racing calendar. Originally run over 7 furlongs, the race was extended to its current distance of 1 mile (1,609 metres) in 2004, allowing older fillies and mares to compete alongside three-year-olds. Leopardstown Racecourse, located just outside Dublin, provides a challenging left-handed track that tests the speed, stamina, and tactical acumen of every competitor.
Key Facts About the Matron Stakes
- Race Type: Group 1 flat horse race
- Distance: 1 mile (1,609 metres)
- Surface: Turf
- Track: Left-handed
- Eligibility: Fillies and mares aged three years and older
- Date: Early September, as part of the Irish Champions Weekend
Notable Winners of the Matron Stakes
The Matron Stakes has a rich history of producing exceptional winners who have gone on to achieve further success in their careers. Some of the most memorable champions include:
- Lillie Langtry (2010): Trained by Aidan O’Brien, Lillie Langtry was a standout winner who later became a top-class broodmare, producing multiple Group 1 winners including Minding.
- Fallen For You (2012): A brilliant filly trained by John Gosden, she showcased her class with a stunning victory, stamping her authority as one of the best milers of her generation.
- Laurens (2018): Trained by Karl Burke, Laurens’ victory in the Matron Stakes was part of a stellar season that saw her claim four Group 1 victories, solidifying her place among the greats.
- Tarnawa (2020): Tarnawa’s victory underlines the quality of the Matron Stakes, as she went on to achieve international fame, including a win in the Breeders’ Cup Turf.
Betting on the Matron Stakes
As one of the major races for fillies and mares, the Matron Stakes presents an excellent opportunity for betting enthusiasts. Here at British Racecourses, we provide expert analysis and betting tips for the Matron Stakes every year. When considering your bets, it’s essential to look at:
- Form and Fitness: Recent performances and physical condition are key indicators.
- Trainer and Jockey Records: Trainers like Aidan O’Brien and John Gosden have impressive records in the Matron Stakes, and their runners should never be overlooked.
- Ground Conditions: The going can significantly affect the outcome, particularly for milers who may prefer softer or firmer ground.
- Draw Bias: Leopardstown is a fair track, but a low draw can sometimes be advantageous in large fields, allowing horses to save ground on the inside rail.
FAQs About the Matron Stakes
1. What is the Matron Stakes?
The Matron Stakes is a Group 1 flat horse race held at Leopardstown Racecourse in Ireland. It is open to fillies and mares aged three years and older and is run over a distance of 1 mile.
2. When is the Matron Stakes run?
The Matron Stakes takes place annually in early September during the Irish Champions Weekend, a two-day event that features some of the best flat racing in Europe.
3. Who are the most successful trainers in the Matron Stakes?
Aidan O’Brien is one of the most successful trainers in the history of the Matron Stakes, having trained multiple winners, including the likes of Lillie Langtry and Alice Springs.
4. What is the prize money for the Matron Stakes?
The Matron Stakes offers a substantial purse, with prize money that typically exceeds €350,000, making it one of the most lucrative races for fillies and mares in Europe.
5. How can I bet on the Matron Stakes?
You can place bets on the Matron Stakes through a variety of bookmakers, both online and at racecourses. For the best odds, expert tips, and special promotions, visit British Racecourses and stay updated with our latest betting guides.
Matron Stakes Previous Winners
Year | Winner | Age | Jockey | Trainer |
---|---|---|---|---|
2013 | La Collina | 4 | Chris Hayes | Kevin Prendergast |
2014 | Fiesolana | 5 | Billy Lee | Willie McCreery |
2015 | Legatissimo | 3 | Wayne Lordan | David Wachman |
2016 | Alice Springs | 3 | Ryan Moore | Aidan O’Brien |
2017 | Hydrangea | 3 | Wayne Lordan | Aidan O’Brien |
2018 | Laurens | 3 | Daniel Tudhope | Karl Burke |
2019 | Iridessa | 3 | Wayne Lordan | Joseph Patrick O’Brien |
2020 | Champers Elysees | 3 | Colin Keane | Johnny Murtagh |
2021 | No Speak Alexander | 3 | Shane Foley | Jessica Harrington |
2022 | Pearls Galore | 5 | Billy Lee | Paddy Twomey |
2023 | Tahiyra | 3 | Chris Hayes | Dermot Weld |
Matron Stakes Previous Result
Check out this result from the Leopardstown Racecourse:
Popular Questions
Where is the Matron Stakes held?
The Matron Stakes is held at Leopardstown Racecourse.
Summary of Matron Stakes
Thank you for reading our Matron Stakes.
The Matron Stakes at Leopardstown is a race steeped in history and prestige. As a key fixture of the Irish Champions Weekend, it attracts the best fillies and mares from around the world, providing a thrilling spectacle for racing fans and bettors alike. Whether you’re looking to place a bet or simply enjoy top-class racing, the Matron Stakes is a must-watch event on the horse racing calendar. For expert betting insights, tips, and analysis, keep following British Racecourses.
Check out our guides to all the other Irish Premier Group 1 races.
- Ayr Gold Cup
- Cambridgeshire Handicap
- Champagne Stakes
- Cheveley Park Stakes
- Clipper Boomerang Mile
- Doncaster Cup
- Dubai Duty Free Cup
- Flying Childers Stakes
- Flying Five Stakes
- Haydock Sprint Cup
- Horse Racing In September
- Irish Champion Stakes
- Irish St Leger
- Matron Stakes
- May Hill Stakes
- Middle Park Stakes
- Mill Reef Stakes
- Moyglare Stud Stakes
- Park Hill Stakes
- Portland Handicap
- Princess Royal Stakes
- Royal Lodge Stakes
- Sceptre Stakes
- Solario Stakes
- St Leger
- Tattersalls Stakes
- Vincent O’Brien National Stakes